Equivalent focal length meaning

Equivalent focal length is a measure of the effective focal length of a lens when used on a camera with a different sensor size.


Equivalent focal length definitions

Word backwards tnelaviuqe lacof htgnel
Part of speech Noun phrase
Syllabic division e-quiv-a-lent fo-cal length
Plural The plural of the word equivalent focal length is equivalent focal lengths.
Total letters 21
Vogais (5) e,u,i,a,o
Consonants (9) q,v,l,n,t,f,c,g,h

Understanding Equivalent Focal Length

Equivalent focal length is a term used in photography to compare the field of view of different lenses on different camera sensor sizes. It refers to the focal length of a lens that would give the same field of view as another lens on a full-frame camera. This concept is crucial for photographers to understand how a particular lens will perform on their specific camera body.

Calculation of Equivalent Focal Length

To calculate the equivalent focal length of a lens on a camera with a different sensor size, you can use a simple formula. Multiply the actual focal length of the lens by the crop factor of the camera to get the equivalent focal length. For example, if you have a lens with a focal length of 50mm and you are using it on a camera with a 1.5x crop factor, the equivalent focal length would be 75mm (50mm x 1.5).

Importance in Photography

Understanding equivalent focal length is essential for photographers as it helps them select the right lens for the desired field of view. It allows photographers to compare lenses across different camera systems and make informed decisions based on the focal length required for a particular shot. Knowing the equivalent focal length can also aid in visualizing how a scene will be captured with a specific lens on their camera.

Practical Application

For example, if you are used to shooting with a 50mm lens on a full-frame camera and switch to a camera with a smaller sensor size, such as APS-C, you would need to consider the crop factor. In this case, a 50mm lens on an APS-C camera with a crop factor of 1.5x would be equivalent to a 75mm lens on a full-frame camera. This adjustment is crucial for achieving the same framing and composition in your photos.

Equivalent focal length is a fundamental concept in photography that allows photographers to compare lenses and understand how they will perform on different camera bodies. By calculating the equivalent focal length, photographers can make informed decisions about lens selection based on the field of view they desire in their images.


Equivalent focal length Examples

  1. When using a crop sensor camera, the equivalent focal length of a 50mm lens would be around 75mm.
  2. The photographer decided to use a 24-70mm zoom lens with an equivalent focal length of 36-105mm.
  3. For astrophotography, a lens with an equivalent focal length of 400mm is often recommended.
  4. The mirrorless camera has a crop factor of 1.5x, making the equivalent focal length longer than on a full-frame camera.
  5. A telephoto lens with an equivalent focal length of 600mm is ideal for wildlife photography.
  6. When shooting portraits, a lens with an equivalent focal length of 85mm is commonly used for flattering results.
  7. Travel photographers often prefer a wide-angle lens with an equivalent focal length of 24mm for capturing landscapes.
  8. A macro lens with an equivalent focal length of 100mm is great for capturing close-up details.
  9. The kit lens has an equivalent focal length of 18-55mm, providing versatility for different shooting situations.
  10. Sports photographers may opt for a lens with an equivalent focal length of 300mm to capture action shots from a distance.


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  • Updated 24/04/2024 - 04:28:00